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Automotive Service Technician

Photo/Video Credit alis.alberta.ca

Automotive service technicians perform preventative maintenance, diagnose faulty operations and repair automotive vehicles and light trucks.

Automotive service technicians adjust, test and repair engines, steering systems, braking systems, drive trains, vehicle suspensions, electrical systems and air-conditioning systems, and do wheel alignments. In large shops, they sometimes specialize in repairing, rebuilding and servicing specific parts (e.g. transmissions, engines, electrical components, etc.). In smaller shops, automotive service technicians may work on a wider variety of repair jobs.

Automotive service technicians begin by reading the work order and examining the vehicle. To locate the cause of faulty operation and repair it, they:

  • use testing equipment, take the vehicle for a test drive, and/or refer to manufacturers' specifications and manuals;
  • dismantle faulty assemblies, repair or replace worn or damaged parts; and
  • reassemble, adjust and test the repaired mechanism.

Those authorized to perform the restricted activities of this designated trade include:

  • Sponsored Apprentices, and
  • Certified Journeypersons.

For complete information, see Restricted Activities and Classes of Individuals.

Program Information

Program Information & Requirements
Apprenticeship
  • The term of apprenticeship for an automotive service technician is 4 years (four 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1560 hours of on-the-job training and 8 weeks of classroom instruction each year.
  • Apprentices are expected to demonstrate progress in their apprenticeship program within 18 months by engaging in an activity that will lead to the completion of a period of the program.
  • Apprentices may attempt the Interprovincial Exam in the final period of their apprenticeship training and, if successful, be granted a Red Seal.
  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, the apprentice will receive a journeyperson certificate and an educational credential (Advanced Diploma).
Trades Qualifier

You can earn a Journeyperson Certificate based on:

Work Experience

The requirements for an Automotive Service Technician are:

Recognized Credentials

The requirements for an Automotive Service Technician are:

  • A valid recognized from another jurisdiction.
  • A successful theory exam.

Program Credit

Category Information
High School Credit
Related Trades

Applicants with an Alberta or recognized trade certificate in one of the following trades may be eligible for credit towards their apprenticeship or Trades Qualifier program requirements.

  • Agricultural Equipment Technician
  • HET - Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic (Off-road)
  • HET - Heavy Equipment Technician
  • HET - Transport Trailer Mechanic
  • HET - Truck Transport Mechanic
  • Motorcycle Mechanic
  • Natural Gas Compression Technician
  • Transport Refrigeration Technician

Supporting Resources

 
Description
Description / Resources
Resources
Trade Information Get important information about the duties, working conditions, and skills and abilities needed to work in this trade. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Job Information View job postings in this trade, and learn about the current job market, average wage and resources for finding a job. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Entrance Requirement You must satisfy the educational requirements or pass the entrance exam to start an apprenticeship program. If you are writing the entrance exam, there are entrance-level competencies to help you prepare, as well as an exam counselling sheet and study guide.
Curriculum Guide Get information on all of the program requirements and what you will learn.
Classroom Instruction View a list of currently scheduled classes.
Financial Assistance Student loans, grants, scholarships and other financial assistance may be available. For more information visit our Financial Assistance section, visit an Apprenticeship and Industry Training office or call toll-free to 1-800-248-4823.
Examinations Get exam counselling sheets for your upcoming apprenticeship, interprovincial or qualification exam.
Legislation For more information regarding undertakings, activities, and certification requirements, please review the Designated Trades and Restricted Activities Regulation and the Designated Trades’ Activities and Certification Requirements Order.

 

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